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We’ve been trying to get to know each other—speed-dating style “The Jets,” I reply

Sam wrinkles his nose “The Broncos are better”

“Not going to argue with you, kid” Sas, so I take the scooper and help As I plop it into the bowl, I ask, “Favorite food?”

Sa I haven’t felt like eating lately”

And just like that, our happy reunion gets doused with a bucket of ice water I dig out another scoop of ice crea the pile in the bowl sufficient, and push it toward hi this?”

He nods, s as he takes his spoon “Got to adood to me”

“So you get your calories and nutrition as best you can,” I re “You should eat all the ice cream you want then”

“That’s whatthese days”

Leaning over, I press my forearh—I can’t even ilad I can be a donor for you”

Saet a dad”

I watch as Sausto and I wonder if there’s so hioodness out of what he can The thought of hi makes me want to vomit Makes me feel completely out of control

“Yourto talk to you about it later,” I start Perhaps because of the somber nature of my tone, Sam puts his spoon down and ss the last bite in his as for your treatment It’s where I live Where my job is And I have the best doctors lined up for you A fancy private plane lined up to fly you there, too”

A s, too, right? And Grandpa?”

“Your randfather can or not He’s still under protection here”

“Did my mom lose protection when she left?” he asks

“Most likely,” I reply truthfully “I mean… we haven’t actually spoken to anyone about it, but I know the rules are strict It’s not soh, since she’ll be safe with me”